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Leg Straightening

Targeted Muscles: ThighsWhat You Need: Sturdy chair

Tip: As you progress, you may want to add ankle weights.

This exercise strengthens your thighs and may reduce symptoms of arthritis of the knee.

Sit in a sturdy chair with your back supported by the chair. Only the balls of your feet and your toes should rest on the floor. Put a rolled bath towel at the edge of the chair under thighs for support. Breathe in slowly.

Breathe out and slowly extend one leg in front of you as straight as possible, but don't lock your knee.

Flex foot to point toes toward the ceiling. Hold position for 1 second.

Breathe in as you slowly lower leg back down.

Repeat 10-15 times.

Repeat 10-15 times with other leg.

Repeat 10-15 more times with each leg.

Safety

Muscle soreness lasting a few days and slight fatigue are normal after muscle-building exercises, at least at first. After doing these exercises for a few weeks, you will probably not be sore after your workout.